manila fashion observer

Summer at Catalogue63

2012-05-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out Catalogue63 lately? Catalogue63.com’s in-house brand And Apparel recently launched its Summer 2012 Collection featuring dresses, tops and bottoms that are easy and ultra-flattering, and tropical weather appropriate - be it rain or shine.

All easy, breezy pieces that you can wear alone when the sun is at its peak, or worn under your favorite jacket or rain coat.

To see the complete collection, please visit www.catalogue63.com or like Catalogue 63 Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/catalogue63.

Too Sexy for My Shirt

2012-05-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

Here's Mary Kate Olsen wearing a deep V-neck shirt from LnA with a maxi skirt, and she sure looks chic. But to spend $60 on a cotton shirt? Hmmm...

Thankfully, local label Sexy White Shirt has something for us ladies without billionaire budgets. They sent me this shirt in white, and also in black a few months back, and they do look adorbs, and dare I say, sexy?! Even with my bulging belly. Now, imagine how much better it will look on you!

Me at 31 Weeks, wearing a Sexy White Shirt, Current/Elliott cut-off shorts, Salt-Water sandals

I asked Melissa & Katrina, the ladies behind Sexy White Shirt to tell us more about their shirts and Melissa happily obliged:

MFO: Tell us how it all started!

Melissa: Sexy White Shirt is all about redefining the value of the basic white shirt by giving it greater versatility through a sexier and more modern feel.

A lot of fancy tops and tees are now present in the market, but when I wanted to buy a good basic shirt that would go with both my basic and fancier bottoms, I couldn't find any!!! So, I decided to design and make one instead.

However, since the minimum given to by the sewer was 50 pieces (which was too many for my personal use), I decided to keep 8 shirts for myself and hopefully discard the remaining 42 shirts by selling them at the Rockwell Bazaar last March 2010.

Even though I like fashion, I'm definitely not a designer by any means, so I had no idea whether I'd be able to sell the rest or not. I decided that I'd be happy if I sold half, and just give the remaining half as presents or giveaways to friends and family.

The three-day bazaar opened at 12 noon on a Friday, and I was so shocked when I realized I sold all 42 shirts by 6:43pm! I had to take pre-orders for the rest of Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday.

Sexy White Shirt is definitely an unexpected blessing that I would always, always be thankful for.

What kind of shirts do you sell and what makes them unique?

We sell basic shirts made from top material and upgraded cuts.

We've brought the necklines and length a little more down south to give it an urban spin, and use 100% organic cotton to incorporate a luxurious feel on a basic wardrobe item.

We want our clients to be able to pair our shirts with anything from their wardrobe, whether it's their favorite pair of denim jeans, a bodycon skirt, or wide leg pants.

Grateful for the warm welcome we have received from the market over the past two years, we have also expanded our collection to other basic colors such a black, dark gray, and navy blue.

What's the price range of your merchandise?

All of our shirts are priced at Php 395 each.

In your opinion, what are the must-have pieces in your collection?

Our best-seller is still our pioneer product, which is the Plain White V Neck. For the darker colors, a lot of people still choose black, since they can pair it with more formal pieces and go for a more polished look.

We have also recently launched our first "seasonal" limited edition collection for Spring/Summer 2012.

The Sexy White Shirt, including their latest colors for Spring/Summer 2012, are available online via http://www.sexywhiteshirt.com/. For orders, please fill in this ORDER FORM.

Ladies, Meet CATHY

2012-05-21T07:34:00.000-07:00

When you want to break free from the covetous claws that consume you when luxury designer bags come into the picture, remember there are a host of local labels to support instead. You may already be familiar with Aranaz, Celestina, and Bea Valdes, including the socio-eco chic that is Rags2Riches, and if so, here's another brand you might want to add to your repertoire: CATHY.

Cathy is an eponymous label named after its designer, Cathy de Leon-Pamandanan, who found her calling while still in college. Sensing that there weren't enough fun, reasonably priced bags for students like her, she took it upon herself to dream up the bags she wanted, and fortunately found a bag manufacturer who could bring her designs to life.

Years later, after her initial steps into bag design, she continues to churn out the most adorable pieces that don't break the bank. Check out these bags from her latest collection.

JOSIE Wood Bead Ruffle Clutches P1,200 each

LEIGH Tinalak and Bamboo Patchwork Clutch P1,200 & ALEJANDRA Silk Ikat Clutch P1,600

MARINA Tinalak and Leather Tote P1,800 & REBECCA Tricolor Tote P1,600

DENISE iPad Case (Black/Neon Yellow) P800

Leopard print Ball Purse with Turquoise and Agate stones P3,800 & Multicolor Embellished Ball Purse with Agate stones and resin cabochons P5,500

As you may have noticed, Cathy's bags, clutches, purses and gadget cases incorporate hand-woven tinalak made by tribes in Mindanao, carefully inlaid shell components sourced from Cebu, and woven sabutan mats from Aurora. While everything is truly Filipino, the designs are contemporary and I can actually see Josie, Leigh, Alejandra and Marina in the pages of InStyle or Lucky Magazine. Made from traditional, rustic materials, yes. But very very "of the moment", very "now".

CATHY is available online through http://cathysbags.com as well as Preview Magazine’s virtual mall, www.themall.ph, at CABANA, a showroom/boutique in Legaspi Village, Makati, and at FIRMA in Greenbelt 3.

For inquiries or orders, you may also contact Cathy directly at:
Email - cathyhandbags@gmail.com
Mobile Number - 0917-835-8346

Say it with Sunnies

2012-05-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Eileen Marquez of BLI invited me again into their showroom so I can take a look at their Spring/Summer 2012 Collection of sunglasses and lenses from luxury eyewear brands like Prada, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co. and Dolce & Gabbana.

Last time, the Prada Baroque sunnies caught my eye, and this season, I am loving the whimsical frames from Dolce & Gabbana! Although actually, there's a great mix of sunnies to suit every personality this season.

Here's a taste of what to you'll see at Adora in Greenbelt and LS Pascual Optical in Rockwell & Shangri-la Mall when you drop by these days:

European playboy sunnies from Dolce & Gabbana, which I would actually wear! I love the oversized aviator frames!

Fun printed frames, also from Dolce & Gabbana. Frames pa lang, summer na summer na! But the shape is a classic that can withstand seasons.

How cute are the stars on the arms of this one?

Polka dots or leopard print frames? Take your pick!

The metal plaque logos on the sides are pretty discreet, you can really just let the printed frames work their attention-grabbing magic.

Meanwhile, Burberry is all about understated elegance with these two frames above. Now that I think about it, I want the light colored frames above. So chic.

Meanwhile, Bulgari is totally blinged-out! This season again, it will continue to please Lola Glamorosa.

This one is more subdued. I am getting some sort of Western vibe on this one.

The collection of lenses for Spring/Summer 2012 are quite interesting too, and have loads of character. Take for instance the three oddly shaped frames on the upper left, very librarian cool. Or the studiously classic tortoise shell frames right at the middle. The white frames are something I wouldn't dare wear, but would actually look perfect on some creative type. The clear frames on the right side (third from upper right), tell me, who can get away with those?

Again, Dolce & Gabbana has great eyeglass frames this season. I really really like these two below. There's a geeky, thoughtful Albert Maysles feel to these:

And did you know there are eyeglass versions of the souped-up Bulgari frames as well?

Check this out! Slip off the sunnies, and put on these babies! They make a great matchy-matchy, signature look! If you are into fancy frames that is.

Btw, for those who missed out on Prada Baroques last season, expect for these to make a comeback soon, but this time around, they come in square-ish frames! Excited yet? I personally want to see those in person too!

Floral Fever at SM Fashion Forum

2012-05-10T09:44:00.002-07:00

Floral Dresses from London Times, available now at SM Fashion Forum

Get these pretty floral dresses at SM Fashion Forum for you, or better yet for Mom (and then just borrow if you are lucky enough to be the same size!) for Mother's Day!

But why not get something special for you both? Or get a full outfit with the perfect pair of heels, because, when you spend Php10,000 in a single receipt, you get 20% OFF on your purchase!

This Mother's Day offer starts today, May 10 and ends on May 14, 2012 at all Fashion Forum boutiques at SM Department stores!

Lots of fresh, new arrivals from Maggy London, Adrianna Papell, London Times, Arturo Chiang and Donna Morgan to shop from too! For sure you'll find something perfect for Mom, promise! ;)

Deals and Thrills for Citibank Cardholders!

2012-05-06T23:41:00.004-07:00

Citibank is slashing off 15% on your office wardrobe at Dorothy Perkins and Warehouse, as a special offer to all working women for the whole month of May.

To enjoy this exclusive treat, just use any Citibank Credit Card and present a valid company ID when shopping at Dorothy Perkins and Warehouse in Robinsons Galleria and SM Mall of Asia. Avail of the markdown also at Warehouse outlets in Shangri-La Plaza and Greenbelt 5.

Citibank cardmembers can also get the price cut at Dorothy Perkins branches in Robinsons Place Manila, Power Plant Mall, Glorietta 3, TriNoma, Eastwood Mall, The Podium and Abreeza Mall in Davao.

During the promotion from May 1 to 31, 2012, shoppers get 10% off when they present a valid company ID at these stores. But why settle for 10% when you can get a 15% preferential discount when paying with a Citibank Credit Card?

Meanwhile, NEW Citibank Mercury Drug cardholders get a summer spa treat for 2 at Nurture Spa in Tagaytay.

When you apply and get subsequently approved for a Mercury Drug Citibank Card, simply have a minimum spend of P2,000, in single or accumulated transaction slips, using your Mercury Drug Citibank and enjoy a Nurture Spa package for 2 worth Php5,000 as a welcome gift.

The Nature Spa Package for 2 includes a four (4) hour stay at the Garden View Room, a one (1) hour spa treatment (choice of Full Body Massage, Natural Facial or Hele Foot Spa) per person, and one (1) Amu’ln reward product.

The Mercury Drug Citibank Card lets cardholders enjoy the best rebates on purchases at any Mercury Drug store, at accredited health institutions, and even on everyday purchases. It also offers exclusive discounts and privileges at partner hospitals, medical clinics and wellness centers such as Healthway, The Medical City, Makati Medical Center, Clarity, Fitness First, Asian Eye Institute, Aqualogic Swim Co, and Gymboree.

To apply, simply visit www.citibank.com.ph/mercury. or call 423-3000. New applicants must completely fill-out a Mercury Drug Citibank Card application form and submit all the required documents. Promotion is offered until May 31, 2012. Complete terms and conditions available in website.

Per DTI-NCR Permit No. 2600, Series of 2012.

Enjoy many rewarding experiences such as these with Citibank. For more information, call the 24-Hour CitiPhone at 995-9999 or visit www.citibank.com.ph.

Germ Killer Giveaway! CLOSED

2012-05-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Germ KiIller and yours truly are giving away this entire set of Germ Killer products and Arix home cleaning implements you see above.

Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to join. You can do so simply by:

- Liking Germ Killer Philippines on Facebook
- Posting a cleaning tip on your Facebook wall, and tagging Germ Killer Philippines on your post

You may earn more entries by
- Following Germ Killer PH on Twitter, @GermKillerPH
- Following me on Twitter, @cd_mfo
- Tweeting about the contest and tweeting just once everyday.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Contest is open to all with a Philippine address. I will close the contest on May 18, 2012 and will announce the winner on May 21, 2012.

Good luck to everyone! And to the winner, you'll have a grand time cleaning your entire home once you get this package! Hee!

UPDATE: Congratulations Keene Slither! Please expect an email from me so we can coordinate shipment of your prize!

Heima New Collection + Design Discussions this Saturday!

2012-05-03T02:00:00.004-07:00

All Happening this Saturday! Join in on the fun!

Oh Hi, Summertime! ( Of Outdoor Stories, Secret Stars & A Paper Universe )

A collection of summer hues and outdoor stories, Heima will unveil its 5th collection with a series of events that showcases rising stars and new discoveries. Familiar feelings along with new adventures, the series of events will take you on a summer adventure of our design and inspiration. Heima dwells on analog and paper, new tones and nature patterns for summer. Carefree themes of friendships and union, touched by vintage textures and fresh sounds. Soft and smooth scents, gentle strokes, sailing through slow afternoons on fields of amber, tangerine tones and lush greens, on ombre skies and a sea of teal sprinkled with sun and droplets of neon colors. Handmade with love on a canvas of dreams, Heima brings you a collection of renewed inspiration and flare.

Collection 5 Furniture

This exciting collection provides us glimpses of summertime, with outdoor-inspired furniture and actual furniture that can be used outdoors. Again, we try to step a little out of our comfort zones while blending what we do best--an eclectic mix of color, patterns, and forms. The theme may seem like a challenge, but the design team has translated this overall theme and concept into real life practical designs. Among the key items of this collection is a love seat and an arm chair with curves inspired by a couple's embrace and union, wrapped in Ikat or floral patterns to celebrate summer and nature. More curves are explored in a form of a chair lightly inspired by waves, contoured to blend with the user, just a touch of cushion and consistent turning for legs across the several pieces. A few more complimenting pieces are also showcased, like an Ottoman bench with a new twist of color and floral patterns. These pieces can also be ordered in custom fabric choices and size adjustments.

Collaborations and Exhibits

Hello Sailor by illustrators Soleil Ignacio and Tokwa Salazar Penaflorida ( at Heima Cubao X ) Southern Stories by film photographers Aleyn Comprendio and Charles Buenconsejo ( at Heima LRI Makati ) Both exhibit seems to be influenced by similar themes of outdoor memories, summertime escapes and dreamlike adventure. We view them as secret stars, gems yet to be discovered by the mainstream.

An additional Collaboration with Pper Heads, a paper installation art group allowed us to make our showroom a dreamlike feel of nature that compliments the outdoor theme, Also to be unveiled is a wall paper wall using a collaborative design by Tokwa Penaflorida and Soleil Ignacio, printed on wallpaper by Brushstrokes Creatives.

Wall Art and Prints

New themes for the season, of celebrations and fresh positive outlooks. Fresh in-house designs with watercolor splashes, gradients and paper cutout as inspirations. Mixture of pastel to bright colors allow Heima to pick up from past designs yet continuing to release a seemingly fresh line. A collaboration with a former employee, Andrea Cervantes ( Berunagirl.net ) using her talent in doing actual paper cutout art has been channeled to vector based graphics for various applications.

Decor and Accessories

New line of cushions, custom printed fabrics, words, typography and bold patterns are in the works. New design for bone china lamps and decors will also be unveiled.

Paper Club

The launch of new stock and colors of MT Tapes (washi tapes) that are currently booming in the craft scene. New sets of Design Books and Issues of Frankie and Anthology Magazine, and also new designs of badges/ pins, Oh Hi tote bags, refreshed tags and branding.

Apartment Life

The launch of Lomokino Cameras, Lucky Film (the one used for making the Southern Stories video), instax Wide Cameras and films, new Vinyl players and vinyl titles from Laneway bands are also available. The Tarsius vinyl LP which is going to be distributed by Heima will be available for order ans reservation soon.

Design Discussions (FREE but please register by email to joana@heimastore.com)

Four artists and additionally Pper Heads will participate in the third design talk called Design Discussions. The outdoor and surf oriented group that is also design centric - Coast Thru Life are also invited to speak on the said event. The group includes several architects, interior designers and Jericho Rosales as core members. The Heima Design Discussions 3 will be also on May 5 at 2 PM to 6 PM. Registration starts at 1 PM.

27 Weeks: Back to Grunge

2012-05-02T22:28:00.001-07:00

My mom and Dada don't particularly like it when I wear these tattered jeans, but they are just so comfy! My mom says this is something to wear to the market, or Divisoria daw. AKA as the haggling outfit, haha!

But I still often wear it out to run errands. This is the easiest outfit to throw on ever, plus this is one of two pairs of jeans I have, that still fit me. Wore this to lunch with Karrots at Basil:

grey shirt from Daley, Super Loved Destroyed boyfriend jeans from Current/Elliott, black Converse x Play Comme des Garçons sneakers

This is how I look like from the side:

I think Xavi is going to be much bigger than Berry. I was on 30+ weeks with Berry na when my belly was this size. Then again, as they say, first babies are smaller and succeeding babies are bigger. Plus with Xavi, I have a teenage boy's appetite and I am hungry every hour. Yes, up to now.

26 Weeks: Prints Please

2012-05-02T21:32:00.001-07:00

Suddenly, I seem to have somehow started accumulating printed dresses. From graphic to ethnic, my wardrobe of mostly solids, checks and plaids has been infiltrated with loud prints. I only started with at most two printed dresses, and now I have like, five. Ehehe! Of course, I am still staying true to my vow of keeping a capsule wardrobe.

Here's what I wore at 26 weeks:

Marni x H&M dress with Marni platforms and accessories from J.Crew, Fenton/Fallon and Alexis Bittar, when Rissa & I attended the MEGA event with the theme "Global chic"...

Ran errands in this t-shirt jersey dress from Twenty8Twelve (this was my breastfeeding dress for Berry because it has snaps on the shoulder, so easy to remove hehe), Repetto BB flats and accessories from J.Crew and Fenton/Fallon

Your Baby Fairy is Coming!

2012-04-28T06:55:00.004-07:00

When we were living in the US, and we just had Berry, the website I most frequented was probably diapers.com - I never had to panic about running out of nappies because they had free 1-2 day shipping, I could buy discounted diapers, and they often offered a free tub of baby wipes when I reached a certain amount.

That is why I am excited to share with you Baby Fairy, the Philippines' first Online Boutique for Babies - with diaper subscription services.

Read on and parents, rejoice! Just imagine how much you can save on time and gas alone. No more emergency trips to S&R, allowing you more precious moments with your wee ones ;)

Remember the last time you bought diapers?

First, you had to bear with Manila's horrendous traffic. After all, we're now living in the 3rd worst city for driving, according to CNN. Then, you had to brave that crowded supermarket aisle, reach out for that large diaper pack on the top shelf, line up for that long check out line and lug those huge packs back home. And finally, you're always afraid of running out of diapers. A wet baby is an unhappy baby, right?

Let's face it. Diaper shopping is incredibly inconvenient. And as a busy modern mom, you have more important things to worry about.

That's about to change.

After a marathon 24-hour hacking session at Start-Up Weekend Manila, Baby Fairy launches with the first ever diaper subscription service in the Philippines.

For as low as P500 a month, our Fairies will deliver - for free - your monthly supply of diapers from brands you love. Baby Fairy's online boutique also offers a full line of essentials, from milk and vitamins to clothing and baby care products delivered straight to your door.

With Baby Fairy, you can shop for diapers and other awesome baby products from the convenience of your home. We do this in 3 ways. First, we partner with the top diaper brands to help you stock your shelves every month. No more rushing to the grocery or lugging those huge diaper packs! Second, our direct to consumer model cuts out the retail middleman so we can give you truly low prices! Lastly, our educational content gives you all the advice you need to help you raise your growing bundle of joy!

There are over 7 million babies below the age of 2 in the Philippines. Three Filipino babies are born every minute. Yet, there is no one-stop online shop that helps you with all your baby needs.Baby Fairy wants to change that.

Baby Fairy is on a private beta - sign up here for VIP early access!

Mommy Potions, Lotions and Creams

2012-04-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant with Berry, my friend Mary Anne gave me a whole year's supply of Palmer's to prevent stretch marks. It could be that, or it could be genetics, but I swear, with Palmer's I never got stretch marks, even just one tiny bit at all. Take note that I started moisturizing as soon as I got pregnant, before my belly even protruded, just to prep my skin for the months of stretching ahead.

This time around, when Denise R. of Rustan's Beauty Source found out I was pregnant, she thoughtfully sent me this whole range of Palmer's and if I wanted to moisturize my entire body, and my whole family, I could! Super thanks for this Denise! I really love Palmer's, I swear by it!

I also have Mustela's 9 Months range of pregnancy creams, and I switch these with Palmer's for this pregnancy. I have creams all over our room, and all over our bath as well, so I never forget to moisturize. Yes, it's a bit indulgent, but when you are pregnant in your 30s, you just cannot afford to be lax with skincare. Ain't as elastic as it used to be, hehe. Tammy T. of Mustela highly recommended the Instant Comfort Cream for Legs, and I find that when I massage my legs with this at night, I don't wake up with painful leg cramps. I also love how it has this cooling effect. Even if you are not pregnant, if you've been up or walking around all day, this is a great thing to massage your legs with before you sleep at night.

Another indulgence and one of the perks of living in Manila, is affordable pampering services. My friend Nina told me about the prenatal massage treatment at Clarins in Rustan's Makati and I always look forward to my twice a month sessions. I just feel so relaxed and refreshed after.

They gave me a sample sized stretch mark cream and treatment oil for toning, but I only opted to buy the toning gel shower cleanser since I could seriously start a mini oil spill with the number of lubricants I have in our bath.

What I like about the pre-natal massage treatment at Clarins is that they really have special procedures for pregnant women in the second trimester, and the third trimester. Every procedure is targeted for a pregnant woman's concerns - ie 2nd Trimester is for exfoliating & toning the body so as to prevent bloating, while 3rd Trimester treatments are meant to combat puffiness on the face, as well as dealing with pregnancy aches and pains.

I have a treatment scheduled at Clarins tomorrow, and as usual, I look forward to it! I cannot wait! =)

Makeup Mavens

2012-04-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

Last night, my SIL Lorr showed us this YouTube video of a Taiwanese show where girls come in their "bagong gising look". But before revealing their face, they show a photo of what they look like, when fully made up aka "After & Before" Looks:

I was fascinated! I've always wanted big eyes and it's amazing how these girls managed to make their eyes look huge!

While watching, my head was a jumble of thoughts:

- Why would the girls want to show their unmade faces on national TV? Especially since one was raking it in as an online model

- Then again, it just shows how much of an expert they are at making themselves look good, they'd make a killing teaching other girls how to put makeup on. Alternative career!

- The hosts are so mean! Imagine how they would look without makeup on! And the guys, you're not Andy Lau or Takeshi Kaneshiro ha!

- Guys will probably now think twice about the true level of hotness of that girl they saw on Facebook, ehehehe...

It's (Germ) Killer Time

2012-04-23T09:01:00.001-07:00

If you haven't noticed the flashing banner right under my blog header, let me say it again, it's Germ Killer Time!

Apart from being my latest blog sponsor, I was sent the full range of Germ Killer products to try. And so far, I am loving it. For one, Germ Killer disinfectants are water-based making it safer and more effective than other household disinfectants out there.

How effective? Well, Germ Killer products supposedly have broad spectrum bactericidal properties that can kill 99.9999% of bacteria and viruses that cause molds, mildew, salmonella, E.coli, even H1N1 and HFMD. Impressive huh? Plus, it doesn't leave a nasty chemical smell. Which is equal to extra plus points in my book.

The brand has three variants GK Air, GK Surface and GK Disinfectant:

If you are fanatical about hygiene, cleaning and disinfecting, but don't want your family to be exposed to harmful/hazardous chemicals, this is the brand to use. Germ Killer is now available at Ace Hardware, True Value, Handyman, and Citihardware branches.

For this month of April, they are giving out 20 ml. samples of Germ Killer Surface at Baby and Beyond (in P. Guevarra, San Juan). I actually carry this sample sized spray bottle in Berry's diaper bag. For disinfecting dubious restaurant table tops, hee!

Next month, one lucky reader will also get the full range of Germ Killer products like the one I have above. So watch out for my Germ Killer blog giveaway in May!

For more information about Germ Killer products, check out the Germ Killer Philippines Facebook page.

Reminiscing + A Visit to Repetto in Greenbelt 3

2012-04-23T03:34:00.000-07:00

The shopping landscape of Manila surely has changed since I last left it in 2006. I remember starting this blog because I wanted to document the things I wanted to buy, because it was so frustrating not finding anything here. Remember, this was before online shopping really hit mainstream and Johnny Air's main income streams were balikbayan boxes and remittances, and not air shipping of online purchases, heehee.

Repettos were high on my wishlist then, that I would often seek it out when I was traveling abroad. I finally found them in Gravity Pope in Vancouver, but they were so expensive there, that Dada dissuaded me from buying a pair. I ended up buying my first pair at Bird in Brooklyn in 2007. They had these patent BBs on sale, so I made the trek to their store in Brooklyn as a side trip while visiting my friend Tet in Park Slope!

Yes, this pair above is still very much alive and still looks good. So, worth it. My next pair of Repettos were these Repetto Jacksons. I saw Kate Moss wearing a pair with black, cropped trousers and I was like, "OMG! I have to have that!". Then Michael Jackson died, and my first thought was, "Now these shoes are gonna be classics". So I went online and bought a pair at La Garconne. Heehee.

My third, and certainly not the last pair, are these sparkly, crackly BBs in Carbone that Dada bought for me. See how times have changed? Before, he would stop me from buying Repettos, and now he himself buys me a pair. Ahhh true love. Heehee!

So when Cecile aka Chuvaness told me about Repetto opening in Manila a few months ago, it was like a dream come true. I couldn't wait! A Repetto store right here in Manila, that's the ultimate! Especially for somebody who practically lives in flats day in and day out (especially these preggy days).

Once it opened, Lawrence of Suyen Corp. made arrangements for me to visit the store so I can take photos to share here in the blog. Berry Ballerina, Nana & I came by after Holy Week so we can take a peek. Berry was thrilled to bits. As soon as she saw the pretty tutus behind the shop window, she was practically squealing. Then she saw these dance leotards and tutus and she didn't know where to start looking...

plus there was an enticing brass barre where she did her own version of barre exercises:

True to tradition, since Rose Repetto started out of her desire to create the best dance footwear for her dancer son, the Repetto boutique carries pointe shoes and ballet slippers...

As well as totes, backpacks and duffel bags for stashing your dance essentials in:

Then of course, for frustrated prima ballerinas like toi et moi, there are these BBs, Zizis and Bolchois to prance around in for daily use:

All in all, the Repetto boutique has something for both serious dancers as well as stylish girls about town, who want comfortable and classic pairs of ballet inspired footwear. But oh, let me remind you that Repetto has French sizing, so you would need to go a full size up on Repettos. Take for instance, I am a US 6.5 and my Repettos are FR37.5 - so when you go there, make sure to ask for a size bigger than what you normally wear. Don't think your feet suddenly ballooned or something.

Shoes start at about Php11,000 and go up to about Php14,000. They also had these smooshy leather bags that are as soft and supple as their footwear. I wasn't able to check the price though.

The Repetto boutique is worth a visit - if only to indulge your ballerina dreams. It's my slice of heaven on earth, or a slice of Paris in Manila - for my feet at least.

Repetto Manila
G/F Greenbelt 3
Makati

25 Weeks

2012-04-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

With the weather getting so much warmer, it makes sense to wear dresses instead.

This is what I wore to my mom's birthday dinner:

silk printed dress from The Addison Story at SM Fashion Forum, Repetto BB flats, accessories from J.Crew, Kenneth Jay Lane and Fenton/Fallon

This is what I wore to brunch with friends:

Silk dress from See by Chloe, gold sandals from Pour la Victoire, accessories from J.Crew and Fenton/Fallon

Yes silk dresses during the summer. Not as high maintenance as I thought. And they feel so cool and soft against the skin. Then again, silk is a 100% natural fabric that breathes, and feels really fresh during hot summer days.

Berry Sperry

2012-04-18T09:55:00.006-07:00

Also just before Holy Week, Berry, Nana & I went to the Sperry Top-Sider concept store in Trinoma to pick up a new pair of Sperrys. My much loved navy & platinum pair has been used and abused so often and when Katrina of Sperry Top-Sider Philippines invited me to come and visit the store to get a new pair, it was the perfect time! I love my Sperrys, and I cannot imagine not having one in my wardrobe. Having a new pair to give the old one time to recuperate is simply a wonderful idea.

Berry had a grand time at the store too. When she saw this wall, she pretended to climb onto the sailboat. Funny that she was wearing this nautical outfit that day too!

And when she saw this pair of pink seersucker Sperrys...

She reached out and got the pink Sperrys, took off her Toms and tried it on for size...

She said, "Mommy, look!" and started walking towards me with this giant shoe on one foot. Looks like we have another Sperry fan in the making here!

Apart from the classic Sperry styles for ladies which I like, there are also these more feminine styles. The shape is daintier. There's even a loafer style on the far right...

Of course, there are a host of choices for guys too. From flip flops, to slip ons as well as the original Sperrys. While I was in the store, most of the customers were women buying boat shoes for their husbands. I thought it was cute!

If you are looking for a pair of summer shoes, or boat shoes in particular, for yourself or the hubby/boyfriend/bro, I really recommend Sperrys. It's the original boat shoes after all!

Can you guess which pair I brought home? Tadaaaaa! The silver Authentic Originals that I've been wanting for years and years. It's finally mine. I have been wearing this pair with shorts and skirts and boyfriend jeans and they're the just prettiest, androgynous thing I've ever had. I am still kilig to this day. =)

Sperry Concept Shop:
Sperry Top-Sider
2nd Level Trinoma
Quezon City

Sperry Stockists:
Complex Lifestyle Store (Eastwood Mall & Ayala Center Cebu)
Rustan's
Shoe Salon
Hide Out (Greenbelt 5)

Basil Thai Restaurant

2012-04-17T20:48:00.002-07:00

This Thai iced tea from Basil, a new Thai restaurant along Katipunan Ave. cor White Plains Ave., that we recently tried just before Holy Week, is the perfect antidote to a hot summer day. With it's milky, icy texture, it is also the best drink to wash down each Basil dish after a spicy mouthful!

Dada's friend recommended that we try out Basil, and since we were in the mood for something new, and visions of bagoong rice had me at the mere suggestion of it, we excitedly made our way to once was the garden area of Katipunan Avenue, right behind the perimeter wall of Camp Aguinaldo.

The bagoong rice, just as I expected, was delicious! It had crunchy bits of shrimp, chilis, onions, with just the right hint of shrimp paste. Although not as much pork or mangoes as I wanted. Nevertheless, it turned out to be just right, because if it had too much of those two, it would have overwhelmed the entire experience. After all, we ate the bagoong rice with...

Pad Thai smothered in bean sprouts. This was soo good! It looks and is oily, but it had none of the weird after taste that some Pad Thais have. I practically scooped up the plate clean after every one had their share. Hee!

The beef satay was tender and melts in the mouth. No aggressive chewing needed. Haha! This was Berry's favorite.

The chicken pandan, or what they called Emerald Chicken, was good, but I thought the pieces were kinda small. I've had this dish better elsewhere.

The beef curry was yummy too! Beef was tender, and the sauce, when paired with plain jasmine rice, would be ulam by itself. I wish we got to try the fish with three flavored sauce, which is a signature dish, but with just three adults and a toddler, we just didn't have room for an extra dish. This just means, there is a next time! Because this is a restaurant we would definitely come back to again and again.

The interiors would be best described as rustic Thai I guess. But it has A/C, so even in the heat of summer, it's comfortably cool inside. It also had a pretty indoor garden wall...

And a picturesque outdoor seating that wouldn't be so bad if it wasn't so hot. Reminded me of outdoor patios in restaurants in downtown Manhattan.

Basil Thai Restaurant
White Plains Ave cor Katipunan Avenue
Quezon City
Opens at 12 noon

Si Valentino at ang Barong Tagalog

2012-04-16T15:36:00.005-07:00

Valentino's Spring 2012 ad campaign has been making waves amongst us who have recognized the Barong Tagalog worn in such a ladylike way. My sister Trina managed to take snaps of their store window and it looks amazing in person.

Does this make you want to wear a Barong Tagalog too? When cut slim, belted and paired with a skirt, it just takes on a whole new look.

Funny how Filipino designers seem to have glossed over looking at our Barong Tagalog as something for girls. Although I am sure some have attempted, but not to this effect. Often, it has always been taken so literally and the few women I have seen who wear Barongs still pair it with pants. When to start with, the Barong in itself is pretty and delicate enough for girls, even though they are really meant to be worn by men.

Valentino's twist was done in such a unique, yet still traditional way. With just a few tweaks, the designers actually managed to make it look like something I would want to wear too, hee!

Thank you Hatch & Latch!

2012-04-16T08:09:00.003-07:00

I just wanted to say thank you to Helen See of Hatch & Latch for sending us these BellyBuds! We've been using these for a couple of weeks now so Xavi can enjoy some Mozart. He really responds to it, because whenever I play him some music, he starts moving in my tummy. Just like his Atchi Berry.

Dada & I just make sure that the volume isn't turned on high, so that it doesn't get too loud in there. Although BellyBuds has a fixed safe maximum volume so moms don't have to worry about accidentally turning on the volume much too high that it could cause deafness.

So yeah, with Xavi, its a little more high tech now with him because he gets his own "earphones"/bellyphones. When I was pregnant with Berry, I just played some music to her via Pandora or while driving in the car.

I really make it a point to teach the kiddos music appreciation early, like in the womb. It supposedly makes them smarter. Plus, it's so cute whenever Berry hears music now, she always feels like dancing, even in public. Specially now that she has been learning ballet. She always demonstrates her new dance moves to her aunties and uncles, and the new friends she meets. Such a performer. Let's see if Xavi will be the same.

Apart from BellyBuds, Hatch & Latch also sells maternity clothes, development toys, baby gear, and breastfeeding products from brands that Helen herself has used and swear by. So everything in her store is mommy tested and loved.

For more on Hatch & Latch, please visit their website and Facebook page. Hatch & Latch often does giveaways too, so make sure you "Like" their page so you're constantly in the loop!

Musings on Hair

2012-04-15T12:19:00.004-07:00

So my SIL Lorr had this brilliant thought the other day. She said it would be the ultimate if we had a helper who was trained to do blow outs. I mean, imagine having perfect hair every day? You don't even need to go to a salon to get your hair done. Imagine too, not having to worry about hiring a hair stylist to do your hair when you have a big party to attend?

My BFF Nina is lucky because she has perfect hair everyday. When she goes to work, a hairstylist takes care of styling her hair, after all, she's on TV every day.

This is Nina. Yes, she looks like this every single day...(photo by Dar Ramos)

Meanwhile, every day I go out with limp, and often fly away hair. Like this:

One time, Berry, Nana & I visited Nina at work. And I was complaining about my yucky hair. She asked her hairstylist to do something about my hair, and tadaaaaa - in less than 2 minutes, with just a few flicks of her wrist using a hair straightener, she came up with this:

My hair looked like it had volume, body and waves, for a change!

That same afternoon, I ended up buying a Babyliss ionic/ceramic hair dryer in Landmark Trinoma, sponsored by my mom heehee. Nina helped me choose, it's a French brand that she swears by. Sarap the feeling to have nice hair talaga every day, I felt so "polished". Amazing what nice hair can do! I just wish I have the discipline to really take time to do my hair each day.

And I really promise na I will buy the best straightener ever! Her stylist used something like this, a straightener with wide tongs.

Now if only I can learn how to use one. Better yet, if Lorr & I can find a helper who knows how! Hey, do you ladies know where one can learn how to do blow outs? Kind of like a hair workshop or something? I am serious!

24 Weeks

2012-04-15T11:43:00.004-07:00

Wore this to dinner with Karrots, Oliver & Tipu at Mamou in Rockwell. Top from H&M, J Brand skinny jeans, Anthology Hudsons, necklace from J.Crew

Ran errands and attended a private sale in Manila Pen (thanks for the invite Therese!). Top from H&M, J.Crew trousers that are starting to get more snug around the waistband, gold TKEES

Photos taken last week of March 2012. I am on my 27th week this coming week, and the white jeans I am wearing in this post need to be unbuttoned now so I can wear it comfortably.

Refresh & Renew with Fashion Forum & The Spa

2012-04-13T06:04:00.001-07:00

When you refresh your wardrobe with the new Spring and Summer arrivals at Fashion Forum Megamall, Makati, Mall of Asia and North EDSA, and spend a minimum of Php8,000 in a single receipt, you get to refresh your spirit too with a FREE 60 minute Deluxe Massage gift certificate from The Spa.

Offer started Easter Sunday, April 8 and will go on until April 30, or when supplies last.

Participating The Spa branches include: Acropolis, The Fort, Trinoma, Alabang and Greenbelt.

23 Weeks

2012-04-12T00:50:00.013-07:00

Eeeep! I have a backlog of posts on documenting my belly as it grows, and what I wear as it does. This week is actually my 26th week already, but let's play catch up...

Starting with what I wore the week Xavi turned 23 weeks old:

A traditional Grecian top bought by my my friend Naomi in Greece, with J Brand skinnies and K. Jacques St. Tropez flats. Very "I did the tourist-y bit in Europe this summer (even if I didn't)".

Wore this Vestito shift dress to a dinner date with Dada. I love that this shift dress has pockets, although it started puffing out a bit because of my growing Xavi, hahaha!

I especially love the detail on the back! As my friend Sarj would say, "business in front, party in the back!" My friend Angela designed this dress, and it is really meant to be worn from day to night. Brilliant no?

Got to Get a Garmin: Now Loaded with Philippine Road Maps!

2012-04-04T05:50:00.008-07:00

When we were living in the States, Dear Hubby and I couldn't seem to leave the house without our Garmin. We had come to rely on our nifty little street navigator for getting around the city (kind of wonky in Manhattan though because of the tall buildings, but great to have for a general sense of direction), more so when we were going out of town and had to take the freeway.

One time a friend of ours who stayed over our place accidentally packed our Garmin (they had the exact same model as ours), as we were about to go leave for a roadtrip to Hudson Valley. We felt like an arm had been cut off when we had to stick to our convoy while our friends led the way because we had no idea how we were going to our destination. That really made us realize how much our Garmin made our lives so much easier.

But my favorite Garmin story would be that of our friend Eric's. He entered a one way street where an NYPD police car was parked and a tough looking cop flagged him down. He was about to be handed a ticket when he told the officer that it was the Garmin who made him turn on that street. He even showed the Garmin screen, pleading his case and all the cop could do was let him go. Talk about passing the blame on a machine! Haha!

So guess how psyched I was when I found out that Garmin nüvi® can now be used in the Philippines! Say goodbye to getting lost talaga! Don't know how it'll go down with our local traffic enforcers though when you use it as an excuse for a violation. Hee! Pre-loaded with Philippine roadmaps - from the tip of Luzon all the way to Mindanao, those with a poor sense of direction now don't to have to panic if you find yourself in an unfamiliar place.

In fact, when we went looking for Basil, this new Thai restaurant that Dada's friend recommended, we took our Garmin with us just to make sure we could find it right away. As for the food in Basil? That deserves a post of it's own! So yummy! Watch out for it!

In case you are not familiar with how Garmin nüvi® works, it gives directions through an audible voice kind of like Siri (no Q&A's though), and a street map on the screen. By plugging in your destination, you are told where to head out to, turn, or make an exit until you reach your desired location.

Now, isn't this the perfect little gadget to give that stubborn guy in your life who hates asking for directions? Or a birthday present that the girls can pitch in to get for your girl friend who breaks down in tears when she finds herself lost while driving alone? It's also the best thing to have if your family enjoys going on road trips. Basically, it is something nice to have in the car, for peace of mind - because it also tells you where to find the nearest gas station, restaurant or mall. Saving you valuable time and fuel and from panic attacks and arguments in the process.

Have a blessed Easter break ahead everyone! Stay safe on the roads!

Road GPS models start at P8,500. If you have a Garmin from the US or Europe, you may load the Philippine road map via NAVCO/Garmin Philippines.

Garmin products range from fitness watches and street navigators to outdoor handhelds. Garmin is available at ROX, Time Depot, Toby's, Electronics Boutique, Automatic Centre and other selected stockists.